The oldest brick structure in its Harborcreek Township, the Federal House at Penn State Behrend has served many purposes: a family home, a stagecoach stop, and even a safehouse along the Underground Railroad. It is now gracefully preserved and elevated by an expansive addition. A light and spacious modern barn slips into the steeply graded site, linking to the restored structure by way of an elegant, glass bridge. Large, glass walls contrast with the solidity of the Federal House while dark gray zinc roof panels echo the gabled roof of the historic building. A warm wood wrap softens the building and marks its entrance, welcoming its visitors.

The project provides new offices, classrooms, and event space for the Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Community Outreach, Research, and Evaluation (CORE). In a county where one in three children under five live in poverty, CORE fosters positive youth development and a culture of hope through mentoring and education programs. Creating space of inclusion and security, the design communicates to its young visitors that they are valued.

Highlights:
• Humanity-first sensitivity to history of the people and place.
• New life given to the unused Federal House by upgrading historic façade with shutters and front stoop while transforming the deteriorating, highly compartmentalized interior into a an expansive, double-height conference room.
• Rigorous design concept shaped the form of the addition to echo and complement the Federal House's mass, shape, and height while integrating site elements (mature trees). The aim was to elevate the Federal House, not upstage it.
• Collaborated with local father/son woodworking shop to repurpose wood salvaged from mature walnut tree that had to be cut down, to create a custom conference room table, fireplace mantle, flooring, and built-in bench. Also, collaborated to create custom picture frame for the granddaughter of former owner of Federal House. The frame featured a chain link from a swing she used to play on, which had become embedded in the tree.
• The new building is a place where “kids can be kids” in their own personal playground.

Cost data: $5,500,000